For those of you wishing to get into the ink business I'd suggest before going any further, splash some cold water on your face, take a long, good look in the mirror and ask yourself "Is this really what I want?" And if the answer is "Yes", then I say to you, "Great, you're just as crazy as I was, but let's move on!" Now I say this only slightly tongue-in-cheek, because today with the number of consolidations and ink company closures, the ink business is not what it used to be. Today there are qualified ink people out of work and unable to find jobs in their field and for many of them it's easier to start a new career in real estate or soccer coaching than to reinstate their lofty status in the world of printing inks.
But if you're still reading this article and insist on torturing yourself - and assuming that you're not color-blind, let's see what we can uncover in the world of ink opportunities.
For the purpose of this article we're going to talk about positions in ink manufacturing companies as opposed to jobs in printing companies or other companies that make raw materials for inks or parts for printing machines.
posted by Terence Kenneth, Consulting/ Training/ Education at Terence Kenneth Consultant
Your observations are also "spot on" Alan. I started my career in England in '84 and soon found that it's impossible to get out of the business after a couple of years! And you're right - one mistake and your name is mud! But that's why we're in this business - we love the challenge, don't we?
posted by Alan Williams, Technical Service/ Customer Assistance at Flint Group (Australia)
I totally agree with the opening statement, and add that if you don't get out of the industry within the first three years, you're knackered, and stranded for life. I started way back in 1971, in north west England, straight out of grammar school, and after 41 years I am still learning. The printing industry is constantly evolving and every day is different, so there's never a dull moment. If you enjoy helping people out, with very little recognition, then this is the industry for you. Always remember customers will ignore the 999 things you do correctly for them, but remember the one time you stuff up, for the next 100 years.
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